Frequently Asked Questions
General Dentist Summerville
Cosmetic and general dentist Dr. John T. Hess, serving Summerville, Goose Creek, and North Charleston, South Carolina, would like to provide his patients with a base understanding of the conditions he treats and the techniques he uses to treat them. Please see some of our patients' most frequently asked questions below. If your question isn't answered, we would be happy to help; contact our dental practice today to learn more and schedule a consultation.
What causes sensitive teeth?
Teeth usually become sensitive when the gums recede slightly, giving food and water easier access to the nerves.
What is the best way to prevent gum disease, gingivitis, and tooth decay?
Maintain a daily routine of flossing once each day and brushing twice a day. You should also schedule annual checkups with your dentist for general dentistry treatment.
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is caused by bacteria surrounding the teeth and reaching below the gum line, causing the gums to become irritated and inflamed. Symptoms include bad breath, gum recession, tooth pain, and in severe cases, tooth loss. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact a dentist immediately. Teeth cleaning, root planing and antibiotics are all means of treating periodontal disease.
What are the most popular and effective ways of enhancing my smile?
Teeth whitening, dental bonding, veneers, dental crowns, and dental bridges are all custom-crafted treatments that can help you achieve a beautiful smile. Dr. Hess is a cosmetic, restorative and general dentist serving the greater Summerville area who can help you determine which of these treatments can give you the smile you want.
What is teeth whitening?
Teeth whitening is a means of lightening your teeth by applying a bleaching agent in brief increments. Safe, effective, and pain-free, teeth whitening is extremely popular with our patients. We offer both in-office and take-home whitening treatments.
What is dental bonding?
Dental bonding is a process of applying a tooth-colored resin to your natural tooth for the purpose of covering imperfections such as chips or cracks, or closing gaps between teeth.
What are porcelain veneers?
Porcelain veneers are thin custom-made shells that attach to the front surface of the teeth to mask imperfections such as misalignment, cracks, chips, or discoloration.
What are dental crowns?
Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps designed to fit over a tooth that has been treated for damage or decay. They restore form and function to your smile in as little as two visits.
What is a dental implant?
Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed in the jaw bone for the purpose of anchoring crowns, bridges, or dentures. They can require three to four visits to the dentist, as well as several months of healing, but can yield more than 40 years of steadfast support for most patients.
Does Carnes Dental offer financing for treatment?
Carnes Dental wants to make sure that financial concerns do not cause anyone to delay pursuing the dental treatment they need. Please contact us to find out more about the options we offer to help you make your smile look and feel incredible.
Contact Us Today
Dr. Hess and his knowledgeable, compassionate staff are happy to answer all your questions about the treatments we offer. If you are in need of a cosmetic, restorative or general dentist in the Summerville, South Carolina area, we invite you to contact our practice today.
